Word Origin & History

terminate 1610s, "to bring to an end," from L. terminatus, pp. of terminare "to limit, end" (see terminus). Sense of "to come to an end" is recorded from 1640s; meaning "dismiss from a job" is recorded from 1973; that of "to assassinate" is from 1975. Related: Terminated; terminating.

Example Sentences for terminate

He expects no good of the assembly, and would be glad if he could terminate it immediately.

I wish to know for what sum, cash down, you will terminate your relations with the lady.

Does injury or liability of an agent ever terminate an agency?

There was nothing that urged him personally to terminate the struggle.

Thus did Wallenstein, at the age of fifty, terminate his active and extraordinary life.

The evening at the school-party was to terminate with some tableaux.

By holding my hand to my ear, I can distinguish soft whistlings which terminate in wailing explosions.

"Let us get to business," cried the priest, anxious to terminate the wrangle.

Here she awaited the approaching accouchement of her dearest niece, which was destined to terminate one or her fondest hopes.